Cloud Computing

The Associate in Science degree in Cloud Computing provides a firm foundation of coursework, including cloud principles, database concepts, end-user support, security, networks, and operating systems. The program emphasizes applied skills, and a Cloud Computing graduate can design and create cloud architectures within a secure infrastructure, configure and administer complex computer and database systems; evaluate networks using cybersecure tools and techniques; and design and process interactive information management solutions. Cloud Computing students acknowledge the importance of technological lifelong learning and can continue their education in the Information Technology field. The Associate of Science degree in Cloud Computing is available for students who meet the graduation requirements and complete the following required courses, with a minimum grade of a “C” (or P) in each course in the degree and maintain a 2.0 GPA.

Classes Added. We will be adding CTIS-19 Cyber Ops, CTIS-24-Cloud Security, CTIS-25 – Application Development in Amazon Web Services, CTIS-26 – Machine Learning, Analytics and Big Data in Amazon Web Services CTIS-29 – Cloud Computing with Microsoft Azure. The coursework will contain curriculum supplied by AWS, Cisco, and Oracle Academy.

 CTE Goal: The enrollment and completer projections of 15-20 students per year are reasonable.  Comparing this to the 100+ jobs projected in this job field the data demonstrates adequate demand for the estimated completers.

Transfer Goal:  We estimate that 20% of the students who get the Cloud Computing AS degree will then transfer to a 4-year school.  If 15-20 students are forecasted to get this degree, this means that 3-4 students per year are estimated to transfer to a 4-year school in the field of Information Communication Technology, Computer Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Information Systems, or related Computer degree. Five of the California state university and four UCs are members of AWS Academy. Cal Poly San Lois Obispo, Fullerton, Channel Island, Chico, Northridge, UC Davis and UC Irvine Ext, UCLA Extension, UC San Diego Extension. As they are teaching AWS curriculum there is potential of articulating some of the AWS Academy classes.

This program introduces cloud computing skills needed to help meet the growing demand for entry-level Cloud professionals. It also provides students with industry related skills to better understand, design, build, operate and maintain cloud infrastructure. In the process of taking the needed courses for this degree the student will be able to gain industry standardized certificates from CompTIA, Cisco, Amazon, Oracle, Microsoft such as the A+, Linux+, Cloud+, Server+, Cisco CCNA CyberOps, Oracle Certification, AWS CCP, AWS Cloud Foundations, Google Cloud Digital Leader, AWS Solutions Architect, CCSK Certifications. Therefore, we are fulfilling all the bulleted goals of lifelong learning, basic skills, CTE, transfer, and degree/certificate programs in line with Merced Colleges mission.

The Cloud Computing AS Degree, will increase diversity in the technical workforce as the students will learn the soft and technical skills needed to provide the platform to be successful as entry-level Cloud Computing Specialist. The students will also be able to develop occupational skills and certifications. The program also enables students to get fundamental knowledge in the areas of infrastructure, networking, and security. The core objectives of the program offer cloud computing coursework designed by AWS Academy. The program aims to develop quality and quantity of technical professionals to fulfill business needs and generate greater economic impact in the central valley.

The students would have to fulfill all the requirements for degree completion at Merced College. Total Units will be 61-62 units.